SAARC: changing realities, opportunities and challenges

Abstract

"This paper examines the changing realities in South Asia and takes a fresh look at the prospects and challenges for regional economic integration in the region. In this context, the two central arguments of this paper are, first that there have been and continue to be some very strong arguments in support of regional economic integration in South Asia. Second, in the face of the ongoing developments and changing realities, it is the right time to provide the needed push and impetus to this process to take it over the “tipping point”. Once over the tipping point, the stronger positive results from regional cooperation will push the region to a higher growth trajectory, thereby generating virtuous impulses in support of cooperation and integration. These will not only benefit South Asia but the rest of the world as the region, with its large population and markets, could well become one of the major engines for global growth in coming years." (author's abstract)